Unlock the rich microtonal universe of Just Intonation

The Hayward Tuning Vine is an interface for exploring the system of microtonal tuning known as Just Intonation. It enables direct and intuitive interaction with the pitches normally hidden between the keys of the piano keyboard.

Just Intonation is based ultimately on prime number relationships. In the tuning vine the prime numbers are colour-coded, allowing a clear overview of these relationships, and therefore of the musical intervals. The central 1/1 'fundamental' tone may be set to any pitch in any octave, and a transposition function along each prime number axis allows unlimited exploration of all ratios up to prime number 23.

Along with this, the lattice layout allows intuitive interaction by providing an overview not just of harmonic relationships, but of melodic relationships too - the higher the pitch, the higher its position on the computer screen.

A colour-based approach to music notation

In the Hayward Tuning Vine, intervals are illustrated with colour as well as Hz, octave position, ratio, and cents deviation from tempered tuning. The software microtuner is a virtual space ship for exploring, composing and performing music in Just Intonation. Try downloading the free demo version and find out for yourself how much fun it is!